Angry Andy Sinton today accused goalkeeper Chris Martin on “reneging” on a deal to sign for AFC Telford United.

The Telford boss had expected the 22-year-old former Port Vale shotstopper to have signed before last night’s 2-0 friendly defeat against Wolves.

But he claimed he didn’t find out Martin had snubbed the Bucks until 40 minutes before kick-off – despite the embarrassment of the club having already announced his arrival.

Martin has been linked with a move to Alfreton, near his home in Mansfield, but Sinton admitted he doesn’t know his whereabouts.

“I was well down the line with a goalkeeper who reneged on his deal,” fumed Sinton.

“I needed an answer either from Chris Martin or his agent, because I found out 40 minutes before kick-off last night he wasn’t signing.

“It left a sour taste in my mouth when I was trying to prepare my team – I was really angry.

“We’d got the forms ready, we’d played him on Tuesday, I spoke to him, I’ve got texts, and I had assurances from his agent.

“He shot off straight after the game on Tuesday, I couldn’t get hold of him on Wednesday and he didn’t respond to my texts yesterday.

“He left a message saying he couldn’t train on Thursday because he had an appointment to sell his flat, then he was down to play 45 minutes last night.

“I don’t mind any player getting a better deal, but at least have the decency and courtesy to phone up and say ‘I’ve been offered a deal’.”

“I don’t even know where he’s ended up – I got a text from his agent saying he didn’t even know where he’d gone.”

Sinton, who has completed the signing of former Tamworth striker Kieron St Aimee, is set to sign winger Jon Brown and striker James Spray.

Brown spent time on loan at Telford last season from Southport while Spray was released by Wolves.

“We’ve got a verbal agreement with Jon and he won’t go anywhere else,” said the boss. “Kieron showed flashes of what he’s capable of. he’ll be a really good signing.

“I would look to sign the two lads who have been on trial with us. yer, and I’d like to take our interest further. James Spray hasn’t signed yet but we’re well down the line.”

Related articles

Wolves beat AFC Telford 2-0 in pre-season friendly